Ah, our beloved Birmingham, Alabama, known for its steel, its barbecue, and its…beer? That’s right friends, this southern city has a surprisingly rich history when it comes to the cheerful beverage we all know and love. Sit back, crack open a cold one (preferably a local brew), and let me regale you with the tales of Birmingham’s beer scene.
It all began in the late 1800s, when German immigrants started settling in the area. Now, as we all know, Germans are known for their love of beer, and it wasn’t long before they started brewing their own in Birmingham. In fact, the first brewery in the city was established in 1887 by a man named Charles F. DeBardeleben. He named it the Alabama Brewing Company, because, well, he was in Alabama and he was brewing beer. Makes sense to us.
The Alabama Brewing Company didn’t last long, unfortunately. Prohibition put a damper on things, and the brewery was forced to shut down in 1915. Fear not, beer lovers, because Birmingham’s brewing scene was far from over. In fact, it was just getting started.
Fast forward to the 21st century, and Birmingham is home to a thriving craft beer scene. There are several breweries in the city, each with their own unique flavors and personalities. However, it’s not just the breweries themselves that make Birmingham’s beer scene so great, it’s the community that surrounds them. Beer enthusiasts in Birmingham are a tight-knit bunch, and they love nothing more than coming together to celebrate their shared passion. There are beer-focused events at local bars and restaurants, like trivia nights and tap takeovers. There are even beer-themed running clubs. (Because what’s better than a cold beer after a long run?)
In conclusion, Birmingham may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think of beer, but it’s certainly one that deserves recognition. From its early days as a hub for German immigrants to its current status as a craft beer destination, Birmingham has a rich history when it comes to brewing. So the next time you’re in the area, be sure to raise a glass to this southern city’s beer-loving roots. Prost!